Best Wound Cream for Horses: Top 5 Picks for Natural Healing and Skin Care
Caring for our horses means prioritising their well-being at every chance we get. When it comes to wounds, ensuring a quick and effective treatment is crucial. The natural healing process of a horse’s skin is remarkable, but just like us, they sometimes need a little help along the way. This is where wound creams come in, specifically the ones crafted for horses.
Apart from just promoting natural healing, these creams also provide that much-needed soothing touch, aiding in a faster, more comfortable recovery. Get ready to explore the top wound creams for horses and their undeniable benefits.
The Top 5 Wound Creams for Horses
1. Best for Dry Skin – Dermoline Soothing Wound Cream
When it comes to treating minor burns, cuts, and abrasions on horses, Dermoline’s Soothing Wound Cream is my go-to choice. Its water-based formula is packed with natural ingredients like zinc oxide and tea tree oil extract, which form a natural barrier against bacteria and dirt.
You’ll also find that the formula is non-greasy and enriched with the necessary components to relieve dry skin. This ensures it does a good job of promoting healthy tissue regeneration. The cream also has a nice lavender scent that both you and your horse will appreciate.
Safe, soothing, and pain-free application, I firmly believe Dermoline Sooth Wound Cream is a must-have in every horse owner’s first aid kit.
2. Best for Hair Regrowth – Bickmore Gall Salve Wound Cream
Bickmore’s Gall Salve Wound Cream has stood the test of time, being a trusted horse care remedy since 1892. It was made to be a go-to solution for any horse cut or scrape and does a good job in this regard. It’s a multi-purpose antiseptic cream that has a carefully curated blend of emollients that can soften, soothe, and moisturise damaged skin – a key part of promoting hair regrowth.
One of its main features is its resilience; the formula won’t rub off, so your horse’s healing won’t be interrupted. I particularly use Bickmore’s Gall Salve for scratches, as it can greatly help in painless scab removal and combating infections. Even when your horse is active, this salve is still a potent healer.
3. Best High-Quality Formula – Silver Honey Rapid Wound Repair
Silver Honey Rapid Wound Repair harnesses the natural potency of Manuka Honey and MicroSilver BG, giving you a high-quality formula that’s tailored for equine care.
This product does particularly well against bacteria – stopping 99.9% of bacteria instantly – while still managing to remain gentle on the skin. Its innovative formula gives the affected area a nice amount of moisture, so healing is sped up significantly. Also, it protects the skin’s natural microbiome, ensuring horses recover swiftly and comfortably.
It’s effective on many issues, from cuts, abrasions, and sores to rashes, fungus, and burns. With its natural, medical-grade ingredients, Silver Honey pretty much guarantees rapid wound repair.
4. Best SoothingCream – Lincoln Silver Wound Cream
For those of you looking to give your horse a soothing feeling, Lincoln Silver Wound Cream is a top choice.
It’s a powerful antiseptic cream that’s infused with silver, which has historically been used for its ability to effectively manage wounds. It works wonders on a horse’s skin! Whether it’s minor cuts on horses’ legs or other abrasions, this first aid solution can help with rapid and effective healing.
The cream not only treats the immediate wound but also nourishes the skin, thanks to its delicately balanced formula. Plus, it’s non-toxic and odourless!
5. Best for Versatility – Farnam Aloe Heal Veterinary Cream
When it comes to versatile wound care, Farnam Aloe Heal Veterinary Cream is easily one of the best options out there. This first aid essential comes packed with the natural soothing and healing prowess of aloe vera and is further enhanced with vitamins and oils. Its formula is specially tailored for treating minor cuts, abrasions, skin irritations, and even cracked skin.
Another key point with this product is that it’s also fortified with vitamins A, D, and E, as well as nourishing safflower and sunflower seed oils. It’s not greasy, so you’ll be able to apply it easily. Plus, it’s suitable for both horses and dogs. With its wide array of benefits, Farnam Aloe Heal is a must-have for comprehensive wound treatment.
How to Apply Horse Cream
Tending to a horse’s wound is a delicate process. Using the right techniques can make all the difference in ensuring your horse has a speedy recovery. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to effectively apply horse cream:
- Clean the wound: Before applying any wound cream, it’s important to thoroughly clean the wound or affected area. Doing this ensures that dirt, bacteria, and any foreign particles are removed, leaving you with a clean base for the cream. For minor cuts and abrasions, gently clean with lukewarm water and a soft cloth.
- Determine the right amount: Depending on the size of the horse wound, you’ll need to judge the right amount of cream to use. For minor wounds on the horse’s legs or body, a pea-sized amount is often enough. But if you’re in doubt, simply refer to the product’s instructions.
- Application techniques:
- Ensure your hands are clean.
- Gently rub the cream onto the wound.
- Ensure coverage.
- Look for a cream that contains hypochlorous acid, as hypochlorous acid can help in reducing bacteria and irritation.
- Ensure it’s spread evenly to maximise its benefits.
- Precautions:
- Monitor for allergic reactions – after applying the cream, keep an eye out for signs of irritation or allergic reactions.
- Prevent licking or rubbing – horses might try to lick or rub off the cream. Using barriers or distractions can help deter this behaviour.
- Check for scarring or proud flesh – as the wound heals, monitor for excessive tissue growth or scarring.
- Frequency of application: Typically, creams should be applied once or twice daily, but always follow the product’s guidelines. If you notice the wound worsening or if an allergic reaction occurs, seek veterinary advice immediately.
Horse Wound Care Tips
Nursing a horse back to health can be a lengthy process. So, here are some useful wound care tips to make it a bit easier:
- Go for creams with natural ingredients like shea butter and aloe vera.
- Always store your first aid cream in a cool, dry place.
- For burns or sores, ensure the cream you choose has soothing properties to alleviate pain and discomfort.
- Regularly inspect the wound for signs of infection or complications.
- Remember, while creams can treat surface wounds, deeper injuries might require more intensive care. If you’re uncertain, it is always best to consult your vet.
Generally speaking, horse wounds can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks (usually two to four weeks) to heal, depending on their severity and location. But, with the right cream and proper application, you can speed up this process.
FAQs
What is the fastest way to heal a wound on a horse?
There’s no ‘fastest way’ as such, as it often depends on the severity or nature of the wound. However, the number one rule with first aid is to address the wound as quickly as possible. Proper wound care is essential for swift recovery.
Start by cleaning the wound, and removing dirt and debris. Apply a high-quality wound cream that’s specifically designed for horses to promote the healing process. Make sure the area stays clean and monitor it for signs of infection. If the wound is deep or if any complications arise, consult a vet immediately.
How often should I apply wound cream to my horse’s injury?
The frequency depends on the severity of the wound and the ingredients in the cream. Usually, applying a wound cream once or twice daily ensures optimal healing. Regardless, you should always follow the product’s instructions.
Also, be sure to regularly inspect the horse’s skin for changes and consult a vet if you’re unsure. Consistent care aids the natural healing process and prevents complications.
What should I do if my horse shows an allergic reaction to the cream?
If your horse shows signs of an allergic reaction, like itching, swelling, or redness, immediately stop using the cream. Gently cleanse the affected area with lukewarm water. Avoid applying other products until the reaction lets up. You may want to consider alternative wound creams that are suitable for horses with sensitive skin. This is another case in which consulting a vet is crucial.
How can I prevent my horse from licking or rubbing off the applied cream?
To discourage your horse from licking or rubbing the cream off, consider using protective barriers like bandages or fly sheets. You could also employ distraction techniques, like offering hay or toys. If this doesn’t stop the horse, consult your vet about safe e-collar options or other methods to protect the wound and ensure effective treatment.
Why is it important to use a wound cream specifically designed for horses?
Horses have unique skin needs and most generic creams might not cater to these. Wound creams designed for horses are typically crafted to promote natural healing, soothe the horse’s skin, and prevent infections. Using horse-specific products ensures safety and effectiveness, ultimately providing the best care for your horse’s wounds and overall well-being.
